Nokia head Elop to return to Microsoft, will lead Xbox devices division

Microsoft CEO candidate and former Nokia boss Stephen Elop will reportedly head up a devices division within the company that includes Xbox among its responsibilities.

Elop was one of many high-profile candidates gunning for departing CEO Steve Ballmer’s role, ultimately losing out to Satya Nadella. It was unclear where Elop would go next, following his unsuccessful CEO bid.

The Verge reports that Elop will now rejoin Microsoft ranks to lead an, “expanded devices team focused on Surface, Windows Phones, and Xbox.”

Over on Twitter, Microsoft’s Phil Spencer commented on his discussions with Elop, saying, “I also know Stephen Elop well. Obviously he’s currently still at Nokia but I feel great about the conversations we’ve had.”

We’ll have more on Elop and Nadella’s new psoitions and how they will impact Microsoft in due time.